Rohtang Pass declared open for traffic

Kullu: The 13,050 feet high Rohtang Pass was today thrown open for all types of vehicles. SK Doon, Commandant, Border Roads Organisation (BRO), said that the road was fit for vehicles but the organization would restrict traffic until next week so that the men and machinery belonging to BRO was withdrawn from the road. It may be recalled that the Rohtang pass remains closed due to heavy snowfall every winter for about six months. This year the Pass has been opened within five months. HRTC authorities here said that they did not have official information about the opening of Rohtang Pass and would start its bus operations only after official clearance was given.

This News items was confirmed by District information officer of HP Government based at Keylong and latest information received to Himvani also says that two HRTC buses were plying from Kullu to Keylong on this route as it is open for heavy vehicle.
Due to lean snowfall on the Rohtang Pass this year facilitated early opening of snowbound road, usually remains off till end of May atleast for five to six month in a year.
ML.Verma
Shimla

This News items was confirmed by District information officer of HP Government based at Keylong and latest information received to Himvani also says that two HRTC buses were plying from Kullu to Keylong on this route as it is open for heavy vehicle.

Due to lean snowfall on the Rohtang Pass this year facilitated early opening of snowbound road, usually remains off till end of May atleast for five to six month in a year.

You are advised to wait for a week at least, as Leh road beyond Keylong is still snowbound. While taking input for Deepak Project story( which is on Himvani ) on Monday I have been informed by Chief Engineer of BRO that it would took at least ten days to clear the entire snow from the road to finally open it for vehicular traffic.

You are advised to wait for a week at least, as Leh road beyond Keylong is still snowbound. While taking input for Deepak Project story( which is on Himvani ) on Monday I have been informed by Chief Engineer of BRO that it would took at least ten days to clear the entire snow from the road to finally open it for vehicular traffic.

Dear Amit
You are advised to wait for a week at least, as Leh road beyond Keylong is still snowbound at few places. It would expected to take one week more to clear the entire snow from the road to finally open it for vehicular traffic, moreover there is no official announcement of its clearance so far .
If you are wiling to go up to Keylong only, Rohtang Pass was cleared for vehicular traffic but before departing to Kullu from your lodging place please confirm about the latest position of Rohtang Pass as it got frequently snowfall due to its high elevation.
You may confirm about the status of Rohttang Pass from Police control room at Kullu on Phone number 01902-222775 and Manali at Phone number 01902-252326.
At Keylong you can took Police Assistance on Phone number 01900-22223.
ML. Verma
Shimla

Dear Amit
You are advised to wait for a week at least, as Leh road beyond Keylong is still snowbound at few places. It would expected to take one week more to clear the entire snow from the road to finally open it for vehicular traffic, moreover there is no official announcement of its clearance so far .
If you are wiling to go up to Keylong only, Rohtang Pass was cleared for vehicular traffic but before departing to Kullu from your lodging place please confirm about the latest position of Rohtang Pass as it got frequently snowfall due to its high elevation.
You may confirm about the status of Rohttang Pass from Police control room at Kullu on Phone number 01902-222775 and Manali at Phone number 01902-252326.
At Keylong you can took Police Assistance on Phone number 01900-22223.
ML. Verma
Shimla

Can you please update me on the opening of Kunjam Pass? Has it opened already?If not , then when is it likely to open for all vehicular traffic this year? We have a programme to cross the pass around 1st /2nd June by Tempo Traveller.
Prashanta Kumar

Dear Kumar
There is no official announcement about opening of Kunjum Pass so for. If you are planning to cross the pass by June1 or 2 by Tampo Traveller it would expected to open till that as snow clearance on it was already on war footing. IR.Mathur Chief Engineer Deepak Project look after the snow removing operation on this road told Himavni recently. That it would be expected to clear with in ten days. So You can plan to visit the Pass. But traveling by Tempo might be dangerous. You should take the vehicle more suit for hilly rugged terrain and slippery snowy track.
ML.Verma
Shimla

Can you please update me on the opening of Kunjam Pass? Has it opened already?If not , then when is it likely to open for all vehicular traffic this year? We have a programme to cross the pass around 1st /2nd June by Tempo Traveller.

Dear Kumar
There is no official announcement about opening of Kunjum Pass so for. If you are planning to cross the pass by June1 or 2 by Tampo Traveller it would expected to open till that as snow clearance on it was already on war footing. IR.Mathur Chief Engineer Deepak Project look after the snow removing operation on this road told Himavni recently. That it would be expected to clear with in ten days. So You can plan to visit the Pass. But traveling by Tempo might be dangerous. You should take the vehicle more suit for hilly rugged terrain and slippery snowy track.
ML.Verma
Shimla

Dear Mr. M.L Verma,
On behalf of all the people waiting for Manali – Leh highway to open I request you to kindly update all us on the current road status as on date fo Manali Leh highway. Best regards, Vishal Chopra

Dear Vishal
There is no update regarding opening of Manali-Leh road. District Public Relation Officer Lahaul Spiti, Shair Singh informed Himvani today that the Leh road beyond Keylong was schedule to be open for May 23 may delay due t o fresh spell of snow on the Baralacha Pass and other passes. But still there is hope that it might be declared open till May 25 to 26. Rohtang is reported open for traffic despite light snowfall on it yesterday.
ML. Verma
Shimla

Dear Mr. Verma,
Thank you so much for all your efforts & updates. Just one request kindly update the ststus as & when you get any information on this subject.
I Thank you once again on behalf of all travellers wating to join on this route.
Best wishes,
Vishal

There is no update regarding opening of Manali-Leh road. District Public Relation Officer Lahaul Spiti, Shair Singh informed Himvani today that the Leh road beyond Keylong was schedule to be open for May 23 may delay due t o fresh spell of snow on the Baralacha Pass and other passes. But still there is hope that it might be declared open till May 25 to 26. Rohtang is reported open for traffic despite light snowfall on it yesterday.

Dear Prashanta, I too closely watching Kunzum opening though I won't be there so marginally as you. I am in touch with Kaza PWD in this regard. You might be aware Kunzum unlike Rohtang and Barlacha (managed by BRO), is managed by state PWD. Their initial plan of opening it by 25th May is got a hit by two back to back western disturbances and when I called them today morning, they said even in Kaza it's snowing at night for last 2 days, ofcourse kunzum is experiencing more snow than Kaza. Their new estimate is to open by end May/early June. But your chances are quite high as this time of year snow melts very quickly due to heat and after 23rd/24th May, weather seems to be better for atleast a week. So unless fresh snow fall is there, touchwood, you may sail through. But surely expect very bad road because of waterflow due to melting of snow.
Cheers!!

Dear Prashanta, I too closely watching Kunzum opening though I won't be there so marginally as you. I am in touch with Kaza PWD in this regard. You might be aware Kunzum unlike Rohtang and Barlacha (managed by BRO), is managed by state PWD. Their initial plan of opening it by 25th May is got a hit by two back to back western disturbances and when I called them today morning, they said even in Kaza it's snowing at night for last 2 days, ofcourse kunzum is experiencing more snow than Kaza. Their new estimate is to open by end May/early June. But your chances are quite high as this time of year snow melts very quickly due to heat and after 23rd/24th May, weather seems to be better for atleast a week. So unless fresh snow fall is there, touchwood, you may sail through. But surely expect very bad road because of waterflow due to melting of snow.
Cheers!!

Hi, I am planning on going for a Road Trip, Manali- Chandratal – Kaza – Tabo and back to Manali to Shimla (via Sangla). We plan on leaving Delhi on 26th (May) night and pass Rothang on 27th or 28th and camp in Chhatru. Then next day to go to Chandratal. Stay one night there and then proceed to Kaza.

I wanted to know if Rotang pass will be open on the 27th or 28th and then the road condition from Batal to Chandratal. And about Kunzum la pass being open on 31st May.

Hi, I am planning on going for a Road Trip, Manali- Chandratal – Kaza – Tabo and back to Manali to Shimla (via Sangla). We plan on leaving Delhi on 26th (May) night and pass Rothang on 27th or 28th and camp in Chhatru. Then next day to go to Chandratal. Stay one night there and then proceed to Kaza.

I wanted to know if Rotang pass will be open on the 27th or 28th and then the road condition from Batal to Chandratal. And about Kunzum la pass being open on 31st May.

Hello Ravi ! Wait for some days as the highway from Patseo to Rumtse (Manali-Leh) is likely to be opened in the last week of May or may it take longer time, you may say in the first week of June coze all the Passes have experienced an another spell of snow fall just about 3 days back which hampered the opening work by B.R.O. Presently the Rohtang Pass is opened for vehicular traffic and the vehicles go up to Keylong but it is opened upto the base of Baralacha Pass 16500 Fts. i.e. Patseo and the work for removal of snow at Baralacha Pass, Nakeela Pass, Lachungla Pass and Tanglangla Pass (17582 Fts.) with the help of Snow cutter are in progress. Yes, obviously the early traveling is always problematic reason being you get snow and snow on the road at the shady areas which are dangerous at steep down roads although it is almost metaled, so each and every likely hood is there of getting slipping down causing loss of lives sitting in the vehicle. The snow & flash flood on roads are always upto 15th June on all the above Passes except Nakeela and Lachungla Passes. Moreover if you go early you will not get the tenting facilities of tea,food and bedding at various places which the local residents of Ladhakh provides at nominal rates by pitching tents at Bharatpur ( after crossing Baralacha Pass), Sarchu, Pang (before Tanglangla Pass) and Rumtse (after Tanglangla Pass). They come after the road opens so better to go after a wait. They are helpful if someone get high alt. sickness en-route or got stuck for some days due to un-certain snow fall at passes causing closure of roads. I suggest some precautionary measures for this route (1) Use 4 wheel drive Petrol vehicles having new radial tyres.(2)Bring warm clothings, gloves, sun glasses, woolen socks and waterproof shoes (3) Keep all medicines especially for high altitude sickness, first aid box, Oxygen cylender, Ply the vehicle on Passes between 10 AM to 1 PM coz before 10 AM the metal road gets thin layer of ice which skid at down or up-hill and after 1PM you will find dangerous sudden big flash flood on roads caused by melting of snow from 9 AM to 1PM. This time frame is based on my experience and no one can tell you such tips for traveling in high mountains of Himalayas. As regards reply for getting real time updates on the road status is concerned it is to say that it is not available in such a place coze I was told several times by a group of locals residing along road in tents that the road is washed away by a flood just 7 KMs ahead and it will take about 2 or 3 days to restore but I crossed all the time.. On the contrary sometime the people say the road is Okay and I got stuck so no one can say about the road there as the status get changing minute after minute. If you require more information you can mail at topsinghbodh@gmail.com……Wishing you a safe and happy journey..

Hello Ravi ! Wait for some days as the highway from Patseo to Rumtse (Manali-Leh) is likely to be opened in the last week of May or may it take longer time, you may say in the first week of June coze all the Passes have experienced an another spell of snow fall just about 3 days back which hampered the opening work by B.R.O. Presently the Rohtang Pass is opened for vehicular traffic and the vehicles go up to Keylong but it is opened upto the base of Baralacha Pass 16500 Fts. i.e. Patseo and the work for removal of snow at Baralacha Pass, Nakeela Pass, Lachungla Pass and Tanglangla Pass (17582 Fts.) with the help of Snow cutter are in progress. Yes, obviously the early traveling is always problematic reason being you get snow and snow on the road at the shady areas which are dangerous at steep down roads although it is almost metaled, so each and every likely hood is there of getting slipping down causing loss of lives sitting in the vehicle. The snow & flash flood on roads are always upto 15th June on all the above Passes except Nakeela and Lachungla Passes. Moreover if you go early you will not get the tenting facilities of tea,food and bedding at various places which the local residents of Ladhakh provides at nominal rates by pitching tents at Bharatpur ( after crossing Baralacha Pass), Sarchu, Pang (before Tanglangla Pass) and Rumtse (after Tanglangla Pass). They come after the road opens so better to go after a wait. They are helpful if someone get high alt. sickness en-route or got stuck for some days due to un-certain snow fall at passes causing closure of roads. I suggest some precautionary measures for this route (1) Use 4 wheel drive Petrol vehicles having new radial tyres.(2)Bring warm clothings, gloves, sun glasses, woolen socks and waterproof shoes (3) Keep all medicines especially for high altitude sickness, first aid box, Oxygen cylender, Ply the vehicle on Passes between 10 AM to 1 PM coz before 10 AM the metal road gets thin layer of ice which skid at down or up-hill and after 1PM you will find dangerous sudden big flash flood on roads caused by melting of snow from 9 AM to 1PM. This time frame is based on my experience and no one can tell you such tips for traveling in high mountains of Himalayas. As regards reply for getting real time updates on the road status is concerned it is to say that it is not available in such a place coze I was told several times by a group of locals residing along road in tents that the road is washed away by a flood just 7 KMs ahead and it will take about 2 or 3 days to restore but I crossed all the time.. On the contrary sometime the people say the road is Okay and I got stuck so no one can say about the road there as the status get changing minute after minute. If you require more information you can mail at topsinghbodh@gmail.com……Wishing you a safe and happy journey..

Hi, I have finalized a plan on going to Leh through Manali – Sarchu and finalised everything including return flight tickets from Srinagar to Delhi to Kolkata. We shall reach Manali on 3rd June and shall start for leh on 4th, June now we understand that the road is closed now. We are seeking for update of the road.

Hi, I have finalized a plan on going to Leh through Manali – Sarchu and finalised everything including return flight tickets from Srinagar to Delhi to Kolkata. We shall reach Manali on 3rd June and shall start for leh on 4th, June now we understand that the road is closed now. We are seeking for update of the road.

Just before 2 hours, I replied here that the Kunjam Pass road was not clear for light vehicles from Keylong to Kaza on 25th, 26th May and even today on 27th that is why the light vehicle of our local MLA Lahaul & Spiti Dr. Ram Lal Markanda could not cross it on 26th May and he had to cross the avalanches on roads on foot with group for about 3 to 4 KMs. The MLA at present (at 3.30 PM) is at Tabo Monestry (Spiti Valley) to celebrate the Buddha Purnima which is falling today on 27th. May. Sorry, I don't know why my reply based on the facts that it was not cleared for light vehicles was deleted from here.

Just before 2 hours, I replied here that the Kunjam Pass road was not clear for light vehicles from Keylong to Kaza on 25th, 26th May and even today on 27th that is why the light vehicle of our local MLA Lahaul & Spiti Dr. Ram Lal Markanda could not cross it on 26th May and he had to cross the avalanches on roads on foot with group for about 3 to 4 KMs. The MLA at present (at 3.30 PM) is at Tabo Monestry (Spiti Valley) to celebrate the Buddha Purnima which is falling today on 27th. May. Sorry, I don't know why my reply based on the facts that it was not cleared for light vehicles was deleted from here.

Mr. Top Singh is absolutely correct, Kunzum is not yet crossable by cars but transhipment is in place, so if another car is waiting on other side and you are ready to walk a few km, probably you can make it. Also one more big land slide happens close to hurling yesterday morning which takes atleast till Monday to get repaired and thus made the connection with Kinnaur unreliabale too.
Over and above one more western disturbance is going hit higher himachals today/tomorrow and if it creates snow in high passes, kunzum opening would be delayed further.
I spoke to Kaza PWD office and they very clearly confirmed the status of Kunzum is "Not yet Opened"

Folks, we tried going from Keylong to Kunzum on 25th May (via Koksar) – the roads there are in a very bad condition. We had an SUV, but it got treacherous even in that. We got official information from the BRO and State police in Koksar that Kunzum would be opened on 26th May by 12 noon as work was to be done overnight there. The roads haven't been made yet, and you'd see mini glaciers and landslides all alonf the route. The ice has even broken the concrete reinforcements on the roads at multiple places, and strong streams of water flow all along the route.

The Manali-Leh road isn't open as well. We went till 13-14 kms short of Baralachla pass where the snow was being cleared. The road from Sarchu to Leh is clear, but it was completely blocked by snow (around 12 feet on an average) on the Baralachla pass. We could see the BRO bulldozers clearing the snow, and the BRO guys told us that the roads would "unofficially" open in 7 days (we were there on 24th May), and the official information would only come out in 12 days.

Mr. Top Singh is absolutely correct, Kunzum is not yet crossable by cars but transhipment is in place, so if another car is waiting on other side and you are ready to walk a few km, probably you can make it. Also one more big land slide happens close to hurling yesterday morning which takes atleast till Monday to get repaired and thus made the connection with Kinnaur unreliabale too.

Over and above one more western disturbance is going hit higher himachals today/tomorrow and if it creates snow in high passes, kunzum opening would be delayed further.

I spoke to Kaza PWD office and they very clearly confirmed the status of Kunzum is "Not yet Opened"

Folks, we tried going from Keylong to Kunzum on 25th May (via Koksar) – the roads there are in a very bad condition. We had an SUV, but it got treacherous even in that. We got official information from the BRO and State police in Koksar that Kunzum would be opened on 26th May by 12 noon as work was to be done overnight there. The roads haven't been made yet, and you'd see mini glaciers and landslides all alonf the route. The ice has even broken the concrete reinforcements on the roads at multiple places, and strong streams of water flow all along the route.

The Manali-Leh road isn't open as well. We went till 13-14 kms short of Baralachla pass where the snow was being cleared. The road from Sarchu to Leh is clear, but it was completely blocked by snow (around 12 feet on an average) on the Baralachla pass. We could see the BRO bulldozers clearing the snow, and the BRO guys told us that the roads would "unofficially" open in 7 days (we were there on 24th May), and the official information would only come out in 12 days.

Contradictory statement about opening of Kaza
Today, I have gone through to news items being telecasted by All Indio Radio Shimla quoting Chief Engineer HPPWD and other IANS correspondent, Vishal Gulati .
AIR news report said that Keylong-Kaza is opended for light vehicle from today onward but it would take seven days to finally open it for heavy vehicles. It said that road is not in good conditions and people visiting the newly opened road should take precautions. The news items also confirmed my May 26 information given above, which I have quoted on the source report got from District Information Officer Keylong Shairsingh who even gone saying that the road is cleared.
But I was astonished after verifying the fact with Mr Gulati who even said that Kunzam Pass at above 14000 ft high is sofar snowbound. He said that HPPWD official denying about the opening of Kaza. There is seeming contradictions in the reports about exact status of the road.
Top Singh, Kaushik and NS also raised doubt over the fact. So far no one can say for sure that Keylong-Kaza is opended or not. But District Administration LS likely to clarify the fact in coming days. Fresh snowfall due to WD might create further problem inevitable with the high terrain or altitudes. There is no need to take the risk by the people as Kaza is still approachable by road via Kinnuar and people should not take unnecessary risk if it is not essential to immediate move to Kaza. People should follow Hindustan-Tibet road and move to Kaza from Recongpeo of Kinnuar to join there duty and business there.
The Keylong-Leh road is still to be opened and perhaps it would require five to six days to make all the snow clear over the passes which was told to me by BRO SE S.K. Doon looking after the snow clearing operation yesterday. No one can be sured that Leh road beyond Keylong would be cleared by June 5, 2010. but if we can relay on the statement of
Mr Doon the road likey to be made clear by June 5 on the other hand Western Disturbances going to effect the snow clearing operation on it might hampered due to more rain or snow on high passes.
ML Verma
Shimla

By quoting Mr Gulati in my reply to a query over status of Keylong-Kaza road yesterday I wanted to make it clear that what he said was also being stated by Top Singh, Kaushik and NS as given above. I donot want to deny what he said.
My concern was that people who are waiting to go to Leh or Kaza should not be mislead by wrong information. I thanked Mr. Gulati for being sharing me the fact about the status of Kaza road.
The doubt raised by Mr. Gulati and Mr Kashuik regarding fresh inclement weahter in the tribal belt of state turned true today as Kunzum pass reported 45 cm fresh snowfall. The Keylong-Kaza road is still blocked and probably take few more day to finally open it for vehicular traffic.
Most important news is that 13050 ft Rohtang pass once again closed for traffic. Another important road Keylong- Udiapur- Killar road also disrupted due to snowfall and landslides. WD caused more than 50 mm rainfall at Udaipur and more than 30 mm rain at Keylong. Snowbound area in LS reported 12 to 18 inch thick snowfall during last 24 hrs.
ML.Verma
Shimla

Today, I have gone through to news items being telecasted by All Indio Radio Shimla quoting Chief Engineer HPPWD and other IANS correspondent, Vishal Gulati .

AIR news report said that Keylong-Kaza is opended for light vehicle from today onward but it would take seven days to finally open it for heavy vehicles. It said that road is not in good conditions and people visiting the newly opened road should take precautions. The news items also confirmed my May 26 information given above, which I have quoted on the source report got from District Information Officer Keylong Shairsingh who even gone saying that the road is cleared.

But I was astonished after verifying the fact with Mr Gulati who even said that Kunzam Pass at above 14000 ft high is sofar snowbound. He said that HPPWD official denying about the opening of Kaza. There is seeming contradictions in the reports about exact status of the road.

Top Singh, Kaushik and NS also raised doubt over the fact. So far no one can say for sure that Keylong-Kaza is opended or not. But District Administration LS likely to clarify the fact in coming days. Fresh snowfall due to WD might create further problem inevitable with the high terrain or altitudes. There is no need to take the risk by the people as Kaza is still approachable by road via Kinnuar and people should not take unnecessary risk if it is not essential to immediate move to Kaza. People should follow Hindustan-Tibet road and move to Kaza from Recongpeo of Kinnuar to join there duty and business there.

The Keylong-Leh road is still to be opened and perhaps it would require five to six days to make all the snow clear over the passes which was told to me by BRO SE S.K. Doon looking after the snow clearing operation yesterday. No one can be sured that Leh road beyond Keylong would be cleared by June 5, 2010. but if we can relay on the statement of

Mr Doon the road likey to be made clear by June 5 on the other hand Western Disturbances going to effect the snow clearing operation on it might hampered due to more rain or snow on high passes.

By quoting Mr Gulati in my reply to a query over status of Keylong-Kaza road yesterday I wanted to make it clear that what he said was also being stated by Top Singh, Kaushik and NS as given above. I donot want to deny what he said.

My concern was that people who are waiting to go to Leh or Kaza should not be mislead by wrong information. I thanked Mr. Gulati for being sharing me the fact about the status of Kaza road.

The doubt raised by Mr. Gulati and Mr Kashuik regarding fresh inclement weahter in the tribal belt of state turned true today as Kunzum pass reported 45 cm fresh snowfall. The Keylong-Kaza road is still blocked and probably take few more day to finally open it for vehicular traffic.

Most important news is that 13050 ft Rohtang pass once again closed for traffic. Another important road Keylong- Udiapur- Killar road also disrupted due to snowfall and landslides. WD caused more than 50 mm rainfall at Udaipur and more than 30 mm rain at Keylong. Snowbound area in LS reported 12 to 18 inch thick snowfall during last 24 hrs.

This is an excellent thread, and after searching a lot, this is the only place to get real time information. Me and my friends have planned to leave for Leh from Srinagar from on 13th June, I just hope everything gets OK by then!

This is an excellent thread, and after searching a lot, this is the only place to get real time information. Me and my friends have planned to leave for Leh from Srinagar from on 13th June, I just hope everything gets OK by then!

Really This is the best place to get details of the Road status.KUDOS to you M.L.Sharma ji,You are really very helpful for all the Leh aspirants. If possible Please suggest whether by 05th june the Highway will be accessible for Enfields or not.We a group of around 10 Bikers are leaving Delhi on 05th and Will start from Manali on 07th june.
You said still there are some stretches which can be covered by foot and not any vehicles.So,are these stretch accesible by Bikes? Please suggest .We are in big Dilemma

Really This is the best place to get details of the Road status.KUDOS to you M.L.Sharma ji,You are really very helpful for all the Leh aspirants. If possible Please suggest whether by 05th june the Highway will be accessible for Enfields or not.We a group of around 10 Bikers are leaving Delhi on 05th and Will start from Manali on 07th june.

You said still there are some stretches which can be covered by foot and not any vehicles.So,are these stretch accesible by Bikes? Please suggest .We are in big Dilemma

After searching for almost one month for leh – manali road updates, i believe i have landed up at the right place. You are an angel for us Leh aspirants. We are also planning a Ludhiana – Manali- Leh trip on our enfield on 6th of june which i believe (after your updates) shall be very much doable. Do keep us updated on the status…..thanks again.

After searching for almost one month for leh – manali road updates, i believe i have landed up at the right place. You are an angel for us Leh aspirants. We are also planning a Ludhiana – Manali- Leh trip on our enfield on 6th of june which i believe (after your updates) shall be very much doable. Do keep us updated on the status…..thanks again.

Hi, To see the current situation of Manali Leh road I have cancle my journy on 5th june and flying to ley on 6th june and return on 11 june by leh manali road , I want to know wheather the road will open on 11 june ? Please reply we are in great confusion.

Hi, To see the current situation of Manali Leh road I have cancle my journy on 5th june and flying to ley on 6th june and return on 11 june by leh manali road , I want to know wheather the road will open on 11 june ? Please reply we are in great confusion.

Even our plans almost the same . Leaving manali for leh on 8 th june. if you are planning around 6th i believe you can give some valuable info and tips to us which shall be of great help. Do mail me your no. if possible. thanks in advance. My mail id : agashishguglani@gmail.com

Even our plans almost the same . Leaving manali for leh on 8 th june. if you are planning around 6th i believe you can give some valuable info and tips to us which shall be of great help. Do mail me your no. if possible. thanks in advance. My mail id : agashishguglani@gmail.com

Here, we got an another spell of snow fall on Kunjom,Baralacha,Rohtang and other Passes on way to Leh on 27th night and 28th morning so it even closed the Rohtang Pass for sometime but got opened soon by the appreciable efforts of BRO. Obviously this snow fall will delay the opening of Keylong – Leh and Keylong – Kaza route for vehicular traffic. Since I am a Trekker and Biker of Distt. Lahaul & Spiti having explored all the Valleys, lakes & highest passes of Leh Ladakh region, HP state and Uttaranchal State, I always remain updated as per ground reality for not only of the above Passes but of all and even of Utaranchal State. Presently the above both route are closed for LMV and snow removal works are in progress. Will let you updated the status.

Do not feel bad about this. We are also a group of 4 who planned for our biggest trip on Royal Enfileds from Delhi to KhardungLA on 22nd May but are forced to change our idea due to bad weather on the Manali – Leh Highway.

thank you for the info abt manali leh route. we are leaving from bbay on 7th june. Kindly advice & keep us updated on the ground reality abt the route from manali to leh and let us knw if we should go ahead with our plan or not

Here, we got an another spell of snow fall on Kunjom,Baralacha,Rohtang and other Passes on way to Leh on 27th night and 28th morning so it even closed the Rohtang Pass for sometime but got opened soon by the appreciable efforts of BRO. Obviously this snow fall will delay the opening of Keylong – Leh and Keylong – Kaza route for vehicular traffic. Since I am a Trekker and Biker of Distt. Lahaul & Spiti having explored all the Valleys, lakes & highest passes of Leh Ladakh region, HP state and Uttaranchal State, I always remain updated as per ground reality for not only of the above Passes but of all and even of Utaranchal State. Presently the above both route are closed for LMV and snow removal works are in progress. Will let you updated the status.

Do not feel bad about this. We are also a group of 4 who planned for our biggest trip on Royal Enfileds from Delhi to KhardungLA on 22nd May but are forced to change our idea due to bad weather on the Manali – Leh Highway.

thank you for the info abt manali leh route. we are leaving from bbay on 7th june. Kindly advice & keep us updated on the ground reality abt the route from manali to leh and let us knw if we should go ahead with our plan or not

Just I confirmed the ground reality of Manali-Leh road from my brother-in-law at Keylong and the local taxi driver friends there who generally go to Darcha, Patseo and even upto Baralacha that it will be opened upto 5th. if there is no another spell of fresh snow fall. It has also to know that some locals and foreigners are there contacting Taxi owners, waiting its opening. Will let you know as soon as it opens.

Just I confirmed the ground reality of Manali-Leh road from my brother-in-law at Keylong and the local taxi driver friends there who generally go to Darcha, Patseo and even upto Baralacha that it will be opened upto 5th. if there is no another spell of fresh snow fall. It has also to know that some locals and foreigners are there contacting Taxi owners, waiting its opening. Will let you know as soon as it opens.

Good news, the Keylong-Kaza road has cleared for light vehiles. It was restored after about 5 months. The LMV from Manali to Kaza and Keylong to Kaza are plying crossing Kunzom Pass 4520 Mtrs. I confirmed it from my relatives and local source there at Kaza and Keylong. I wish you all the safe and pleasant journey.

Good news, the Keylong-Kaza road has cleared for light vehiles. It was restored after about 5 months. The LMV from Manali to Kaza and Keylong to Kaza are plying crossing Kunzom Pass 4520 Mtrs. I confirmed it from my relatives and local source there at Kaza and Keylong. I wish you all the safe and pleasant journey.

Manali-Leh highway after remaining closed for six months has been finally declared open for light vehicles, Commander, S.K.Doon, Superintendent Engineer of Boarder Road organisation told over Phone. He said that Manali -Leh road has been declared opened for light vehicles as BRO cleared the snow form Snow bound Baralacha, Langlacha and other s passes and upto Leh in Ladhak region of J& K by last evening.
He said that highway would be made open for heavy vehicles within three days. He said that 13050 ft high Rohtang Pass was already on for the traffic upto Keylong.

Manali-Leh highway after remaining closed for six months has been finally declared open for light vehicles, Commander, S.K.Doon, Superintendent Engineer of Boarder Road organisation told over Phone. He said that Manali -Leh road has been declared opened for light vehicles as BRO cleared the snow form Snow bound Baralacha, Langlacha and other s passes and upto Leh in Ladhak region of J& K by last evening.

He said that highway would be made open for heavy vehicles within three days. He said that 13050 ft high Rohtang Pass was already on for the traffic upto Keylong.

The 475-km Manali-Leh highway, which remains closed for vehicular traffic for five-six months in the winter owing to heavy snowfall, is likely to re-open for traffic Saturday.
'The highway will most likely be reopened Saturday evening,' said S.K. Doon of the General Reserve Engineering Force, a wing of the Border Roads Organisation.
'The snow clearance operation is almost near completion. If the weather remains favourable, the highway will again be made motorable for all types of vehicles by Saturday,' he said.
The Manali-Leh highway, connecting Himachal Pradesh with Jammu and Kashmir, winds its way through the Rohtang Pass (13,050 ft), Baralacha Pass (16,020 ft), Lachlungla Pass (16,620 ft) and Tanglangla (17,480 ft).
The highway plays an important role in the movement of the armed forces to forward areas in Ladakh.
Source:&nbsp ;http://sify.com/finance/manali-leh-highway-likely-to-reopen-saturday-news-default-kgemubhhcaj.html

Above two dont seem to be a good sign at all. Seems that Manali-Leh might not open in near future. Please update with the latest news. We had planned our trip via Manali, but in case Manali-Leh is closed, we will have to route our itinerary via Srinagar. We will be starting from Delhi on 12th morning

Above two dont seem to be a good sign at all. Seems that Manali-Leh might not open in near future. Please update with the latest news. We had planned our trip via Manali, but in case Manali-Leh is closed, we will have to route our itinerary via Srinagar. We will be starting from Delhi on 12th morning

The Manali-Leh road has opened by the BRO for vehicular traffic as the light vehicles waiting for its opening at Keylong has crossed Baralacha Pass yesterday at 8 PM on 6th June, 2010 including some oil tanker trucks from Ambala. As regards the other passes on the way i.e. Nakeela, Lachungla and Tanglangla are concerned these were cleared since long time and it was only the Baralacha Pass which was to be cleared and now it is clear/open. My best wishes to all for a safe and pleasant journey…

The Manali-Leh road has opened by the BRO for vehicular traffic as the light vehicles waiting for its opening at Keylong has crossed Baralacha Pass yesterday at 8 PM on 6th June, 2010 including some oil tanker trucks from Ambala. As regards the other passes on the way i.e. Nakeela, Lachungla and Tanglangla are concerned these were cleared since long time and it was only the Baralacha Pass which was to be cleared and now it is clear/open. My best wishes to all for a safe and pleasant journey…

Thanking you for your updates on the road status. You are very lucky guy to have your relatives there. Do you have any updates on the road conditions. Are they safe enough to ride a bike on that route or one should still need to wait for better conditions….. awaiting your's reply.

Hey ! Dude, first you read my reply of dated 23.05.10 above to Mr. Ravi on the same question and ask if any more information is needed. The road conditions are that there will be heaps of snow along roads at both side of Baralacha Pass and Tanglangla Pass (17582 Fts) flowing melted snow water even on the roads and at shady places you have to ride over the snow which is dangerous in the early morning or late in the evening (when it becomes hard ice coze of cold-trans wind ) that too when you riding on uphill or downhill steep slopes. Regarding Nakeela and Lachungla Passes no such snow will be there. Since I am a biker and have explored Leh Laddakh by bike about 15 times so ride single and luggage should be on both side to maintain balance and it should be below the rider's leg for free legs movements while stopping or jumping. Which bike you use ?

Yes, obviously the road conditions will be better during August.
The Apache is better than Karizma or Pulsar in the Manali-Leh road
but on the contrary the Karizma or Pusar 220 cc is better than Apache
in the Chd-Delhi road.

Thanking you for your updates on the road status. You are very lucky guy to have your relatives there. Do you have any updates on the road conditions. Are they safe enough to ride a bike on that route or one should still need to wait for better conditions….. awaiting your's reply.

Hey ! Dude, first you read my reply of dated 23.05.10 above to Mr. Ravi on the same question and ask if any more information is needed. The road conditions are that there will be heaps of snow along roads at both side of Baralacha Pass and Tanglangla Pass (17582 Fts) flowing melted snow water even on the roads and at shady places you have to ride over the snow which is dangerous in the early morning or late in the evening (when it becomes hard ice coze of cold-trans wind ) that too when you riding on uphill or downhill steep slopes. Regarding Nakeela and Lachungla Passes no such snow will be there. Since I am a biker and have explored Leh Laddakh by bike about 15 times so ride single and luggage should be on both side to maintain balance and it should be below the rider's leg for free legs movements while stopping or jumping. Which bike you use ?

It is not a snow bound (about 5 months) road like Manali-Kaza to wait the opening of Rohtang and Kunzom Passes for vehicles. It is all weather open road and the HRTC Buses are reaching Kaza from Shimla side as I confirmed from my friends in Kaza. The road is cleared by the PWD labours within an hour or two if it is damaged by the slips at Recongpio, Sumdo, Tabo, Hurling etc. However while going to Kaza you inquire at HRTC Bus Stand at Shimla..

It is not a snow bound (about 5 months) road like Manali-Kaza to wait the opening of Rohtang and Kunzom Passes for vehicles. It is all weather open road and the HRTC Buses are reaching Kaza from Shimla side as I confirmed from my friends in Kaza. The road is cleared by the PWD labours within an hour or two if it is damaged by the slips at Recongpio, Sumdo, Tabo, Hurling etc. However while going to Kaza you inquire at HRTC Bus Stand at Shimla..

Torrential rain and snow partly effected the normal life in the state as Manali-Leh highway temporarily closed for vehicular traffic due to moderate spell snow and landslides on it this morning, official said. 13050 ft high Rohtang Pass and other lofty passes experienced half foot thick fresh snowfall overnight. The vehicular traffic on Manali-Leh road have to suspended temporarily due to fresh snowfall on 13050 high Rohtang Pass and other passes between Keylong and Leh, which was just restored yesterday by the Border Road Organization(BRO) for light vehicles after remaining close for six months. Jalam-Mandi HRTC bus could not road up on the snowy track between Keylong and Rohtang as it had to return back to Keylong waiting for clear the snow form the road. BRO, SE, S.K.Doon also said that Manali-Leh road was closed for vehicle due to fresh inclement weather conditions and snowfall on Rohtang and other passes, however it normal also remains close during every Tuesday official to do minor repairs on the road.
The road is likely to be opened soon after weather becomes conducive to run the convey on it. Manali-Leh road has been official declared opened for light vehicles and now restoring of road would not take much time.

We are going from manali
to Jispa on 29th June 2010 . This is a tuesday. I read that the road is closed every tuesday for maintainance. Please let me know whether we can travel to Jispa from Manali on tuesday on 29th June. Thanks.
Your reports are indeed very detailed and very usefyl to the public in general and tourists in particular, Awaiting you reply.

Torrential rain and snow partly effected the normal life in the state as Manali-Leh highway temporarily closed for vehicular traffic due to moderate spell snow and landslides on it this morning, official said. 13050 ft high Rohtang Pass and other lofty passes experienced half foot thick fresh snowfall overnight. The vehicular traffic on Manali-Leh road have to suspended temporarily due to fresh snowfall on 13050 high Rohtang Pass and other passes between Keylong and Leh, which was just restored yesterday by the Border Road Organization(BRO) for light vehicles after remaining close for six months. Jalam-Mandi HRTC bus could not road up on the snowy track between Keylong and Rohtang as it had to return back to Keylong waiting for clear the snow form the road. BRO, SE, S.K.Doon also said that Manali-Leh road was closed for vehicle due to fresh inclement weather conditions and snowfall on Rohtang and other passes, however it normal also remains close during every Tuesday official to do minor repairs on the road.
The road is likely to be opened soon after weather becomes conducive to run the convey on it. Manali-Leh road has been official declared opened for light vehicles and now restoring of road would not take much time.

to Jispa on 29th June 2010 . This is a tuesday. I read that the road is closed every tuesday for maintainance. Please let me know whether we can travel to Jispa from Manali on tuesday on 29th June. Thanks.

Your reports are indeed very detailed and very usefyl to the public in general and tourists in particular, Awaiting you reply.

Mr Top Singh thanks a lots for ur information. actually we are planning to move ahead from chakrata to keylong via hatkoti-peo-hoorling-kaza-losar can you inform about road condition for four wheel drive. or this itenary is right or any other rout we can use. pls inform

Mr Top Singh thanks a lots for ur information. actually we are planning to move ahead from chakrata to keylong via hatkoti-peo-hoorling-kaza-losar can you inform about road condition for four wheel drive. or this itenary is right or any other rout we can use. pls inform

Dear Mr. Verma,
Please let me know the condition of the road from kaza to koksar and whether the road will be open for traffic at Kunzum pass between 21-25th June specially in the wake of the recent heavy rains/snowfall. We would be travelling by SX 4.

Please let me know the condition of the road from kaza to koksar and whether the road will be open for traffic at Kunzum pass between 21-25th June specially in the wake of the recent heavy rains/snowfall. We would be travelling by SX 4.

Dear All
This seems to be really dicey. After Mr. Verma updated us on 8th with the news of torrential rainfalls, I became even more anxious. Anxiety grew on seeing the update on https://vistet.wordpress.com/category/manali-leh-… link. The only hope seems from the govt website, http://www.leh.nic.in
I will be starting from Delhi on Saturday, and hope, by then, roads are open!

One should never rely on Leh.nic.in or hplahaulspiti.nic.in for road status. It has rained heavily and it's again raining today in higher areas. When I spoke to DC Office Keylong at 3.00pm, they said in Keylong it rains close to 40mm and that means 7ft of snow in higher passes like Barlacha. At 3.00pm today Rohtang, Kunzum and Barlacha all were closed, Rohtang would open again soon but Barlacha if really has 7/8 ft fresh snowfall and that continues today, realistically I don't see any hope of crossing that before a week, considering IMD prediction would be true and no severe rain fall in next one week atleast.
If someone having time, and waiting in Keylong is not an issue, Manali-Leh is worth trying, else probably Srinagar-Leh is better idea considering current situation.

One should never rely on Leh.nic.in or hplahaulspiti.nic.in for road status. It has rained heavily and it's again raining today in higher areas. When I spoke to DC Office Keylong at 3.00pm, they said in Keylong it rains close to 40mm and that means 7ft of snow in higher passes like Barlacha. At 3.00pm today Rohtang, Kunzum and Barlacha all were closed, Rohtang would open again soon but Barlacha if really has 7/8 ft fresh snowfall and that continues today, realistically I don't see any hope of crossing that before a week, considering IMD prediction would be true and no severe rain fall in next one week atleast.

If someone having time, and waiting in Keylong is not an issue, Manali-Leh is worth trying, else probably Srinagar-Leh is better idea considering current situation.

Current status is Rohtang, Kunzum and Barlacha all are closed. Local estimate is 2 days atleast for Rohtang and Kunzum to open, Barlacha people even saying some places have 12 ft snow, so if no more snow fall, expect atleast another week, 2010 is going to set a new record for pass opening it seems.

Current status is Rohtang, Kunzum and Barlacha all are closed. Local estimate is 2 days atleast for Rohtang and Kunzum to open, Barlacha people even saying some places have 12 ft snow, so if no more snow fall, expect atleast another week, 2010 is going to set a new record for pass opening it seems.

In addition to above, it will be useful to contact the A.E. PWD Keylong on 01900-222276 (O) 222766 (R) as his labours, chowkidar of Rest houses work there between Batal and Gramphoo (below Rohtang Pass). It is also brought to your kind notice that the D.C. Keylong use to deploy Rescue Party at Koksar and D.C. Kullu at Marhi (Both side of Rohtang Pass)every year during February, March and April till the opening of Pass for vehicular traffic to rescue the locals and employees who cross it on foot in urgency. So if this rescue party is called by the administrations of Kullu and Keylong to search the missing persons in snow between Batal and Rohtang Pass, it can prove a great help.

Thanks a ton Sir Ji …
Atleast we recd one call y'day late eve thro satellite ph , They are safe .
Now just eager to know if they can start today once pass is open .
B rgds / Sanjay Pandya ( 09821060943 )

No mention please. Since i belong from the same place where your group got lost for about
5 days, so it was my primary duty to do something to save them. I am a trekker and have
done Manali-Kaza on foot twice so I know how dangerous is this but thank God all are safe.
Yes, they might have reached Manali on 12th, the day the Rohtang was opened for vehicles
as my relatives who started from Kullu on 12th. morning reached Keylong in the evening.
I wish you all the best.

Dear Top singhji ,
Thks for all your info . We are in touch with Keylong police stn and also with DC police at Keylong . They were very helpful. Y'day one rescue team of 10 persons from Kaza had gone to Batal . They infmd all safe however both the roads …towards Rohtang and towards Kaza has big glaciers on road so it may take two days to clear .
Finally one helicopter was sent today and few girls brought back to Manali . Other news awaited .
Thks for all your help . I have been to this route bfore 2 years so I know it is very difficult to stay there for 7 days in bad weather !!

Yesterday the helicopter lifted 16 persons to
Manali and 17 are still there in Batal but all
are safe, don’t worry. However, if any other
help is required, feel free.

Top Singh Bodh
Jun 12, 2010 - 06:07 AM

Hi.. Sanjay Pandya !

Its big problem as on 8th there was heavy snow fall there causing closure of Kunjom, Rohtang and Baralacha Passes, the gateway to enter into Spiti, Lahaul and Ladakh. Out of the above the Rohtang Pass will be opened soon for vehicular traffic. You are advised to open the official web site of Himachal Police vide which the wanted and missing persons are dealt with on line, the link is http://admis.hp.nic.in/himpol/. You can also contact the administration and police assistance at Kaza, Keylong, Manali and Kullu on the following numbers:-

1. ADC Kaza 01906-222202 (O) 222203 (R)

2. S.H.O. Police Kaza. 01906-222210 (O)

3. D.C. Keylong. 01900-222501 (O) 222503 (R)

4. S.P. Keylong. 01900-222226 (O) 222227 (R)

5. D.S.P. Manali. 01902-253400 (O)

6. Police Station Manali 01902-252326 (O)

7, D.C. Kullu 01902-222727 (O) 222726 (R)

8. S.P. Kullu. 01902-224700 (O) 224800 (R)

9. A.S.P. Kullu. 01902-225589 (O) 225089 (R)

10.D.S.P. Kullu. 01902-224701 (O) 224801 (R)

In addition to above, it will be useful to contact the A.E. PWD Keylong on 01900-222276 (O) 222766 (R) as his labours, chowkidar of Rest houses work there between Batal and Gramphoo (below Rohtang Pass). It is also brought to your kind notice that the D.C. Keylong use to deploy Rescue Party at Koksar and D.C. Kullu at Marhi (Both side of Rohtang Pass)every year during February, March and April till the opening of Pass for vehicular traffic to rescue the locals and employees who cross it on foot in urgency. So if this rescue party is called by the administrations of Kullu and Keylong to search the missing persons in snow between Batal and Rohtang Pass, it can prove a great help.

Thks for all your info . We are in touch with Keylong police stn and also with DC police at Keylong . They were very helpful. Y'day one rescue team of 10 persons from Kaza had gone to Batal . They infmd all safe however both the roads …towards Rohtang and towards Kaza has big glaciers on road so it may take two days to clear .

Finally one helicopter was sent today and few girls brought back to Manali . Other news awaited .

Thks for all your help . I have been to this route bfore 2 years so I know it is very difficult to stay there for 7 days in bad weather !!

Hi Ashutosh ,
Pl speak to Kaza rescue team incharge Mr. Bharti ( Cell no : 09418288126 ) . He was incharge of rescue team which went to Batal . If she was towards Losar or Kaza , you can also contact Kaza police station or DC Kaza . Tel nos Mr. Topsinghji has given in earlier posting in this thread pl check .
HP police dept is very co-operative on this matter . If required they can also arrange Chopper to airlift her . For Batal area DC Keylong ( Tel : 01900 222501 and 222503 ) is taking care of operation and towards Kaza , DC Kaza has to be contacted .
Our entire group has been airlifted on sunday and tuesday .
Thnks Tosinghji for all your help ..

Hi Sanjay,
Thanks so much for the information. I must say you folks with the help of Top Singhji are doing a wonderful job. I spoke to Mr. Bharti and as per his advice I called SP Keylong. They will check and revert. Once again Thank You
Regards
Ashutosh

I spoke to SP Keylong and its seems my friend is not there.
The last message she had given was that she would
contact me when she reaches Manali. As I dont know where
her last position was I think I will wait for her message.
Thank you for your help. Ashutosh

I spoke to SP Keylong and its seems my friend is not there.
The last message she had given was that she would
contact me when she reaches Manali. As I dont know where
her last position was I think I will wait for her message.
Thank you for your help.
Ashutosh

Hi Ashutosh ,
Keep in touch with DC Keylong and also at Kaza
as any foreign nationals( for that matter even Indian
groups) are registered at different army post.
If she has entered Lahul spiti valley and not left it , the authorities must have record of it .

Sanjay Pandya
Jun 28, 2010 - 08:01 PM

Hi Ashutosh ,
Is your US friend contacted you later ?? Our group
had met a single US lady at Kaza , but were not sure she reached Batal or went back from there .

Sanjay Pandya
Jun 16, 2010 - 05:23 PM

Hi Ashutosh ,

Pl speak to Kaza rescue team incharge Mr. Bharti ( Cell no : 09418288126 ) . He was incharge of rescue team which went to Batal . If she was towards Losar or Kaza , you can also contact Kaza police station or DC Kaza . Tel nos Mr. Topsinghji has given in earlier posting in this thread pl check .

HP police dept is very co-operative on this matter . If required they can also arrange Chopper to airlift her . For Batal area DC Keylong ( Tel : 01900 222501 and 222503 ) is taking care of operation and towards Kaza , DC Kaza has to be contacted .

Thanks so much for the information. I must say you folks with the help of Top Singhji are doing a wonderful job. I spoke to Mr. Bharti and as per his advice I called SP Keylong. They will check and revert. Once again Thank You

If she has entered Lahul spiti valley and not left it , the authorities must have record of it .

Sanjay Pandya
Jun 28, 2010 - 08:01 PM

Hi Ashutosh ,

Is your US friend contacted you later ?? Our group

had met a single US lady at Kaza , but were not sure she reached Batal or went back from there .

prashanta kumar
Jun 16, 2010 - 06:41 PM

Hi all,

Finally I am back to my place Haldia(W.B.) after concluding a memorable trip via Delhi to FAGU,SARAHAN, CHHITKUL,RAKSHAM,SANGLA,KALPA ,NAKO LAKE,MALLING NULLAH,CHANGO,SUMDO,GIU,HURLING,TABO,DHANKAR,PIN VALLEY(upto Kungri Monastry),KAZA,KIBBER,KI,LANGZA,KOMIC,LOSAR,KUNJAM PASS,BATAL,(CHANDRATAAL was not motorable),KYATO,CHHOTA DHARA,GRAMPHU,ROHTANG PASS,MANALI & back to Delhi.We in a group of 13 of our family members travelled by Tempo Traveller encompassing the said places with fascinating and breathtaking sceneries making it a journey of the lifetime for us.The weather was favourable with blue skies making the views really awesome. We started the journey ex-Delhi on 29.05.10 and returned back there on 08.06.10(11 days).

However it is really surprising and sad to learn that the weather turned dreadful thereafter and many of the tourists got trapped in the avalanches and snowfall that followed and are being airlifted back to Manali after remaining there in icy conditions for 5-7 days.Thank God we were lucky by the grace of Kunjam Devi as our journey was without any hiccup whatsoever.

Nine out of the 13 had travelled to Leh,Khardungla Pass via Manali in June 2007 and had returned to Delhi via Kargil,Zozila Pass,Sonmarg and Srinagar experiencing some wonderful panorama of sightseeing.Today it is almost impossible to decide as to which of the two trips was better.

My heartfelt thanks to all those who helped us directly or indirectly in successful completion of the trip.I only pray to the Almighty now that all our friends trapped at various places are rescued and brought to safer places quickly.

Finally I am back to my place Haldia(W.B.) after concluding a memorable trip via Delhi to FAGU,SARAHAN, CHHITKUL,RAKSHAM,SANGLA,KALPA ,NAKO LAKE,MALLING NULLAH,CHANGO,SUMDO,GIU,HURLING,TABO,DHANKAR,PIN VALLEY(upto Kungri Monastry),KAZA,KIBBER,KI,LANGZA,KOMIC,LOSAR,KUNJAM PASS,BATAL,(CHANDRATAAL was not motorable),KYATO,CHHOTA DHARA,GRAMPHU,ROHTANG PASS,MANALI & back to Delhi.We in a group of 13 of our family members travelled by Tempo Traveller encompassing the said places with fascinating and breathtaking sceneries making it a journey of the lifetime for us.The weather was favourable with blue skies making the views really awesome. We started the journey ex-Delhi on 29.05.10 and returned back there on 08.06.10(11 days).

However it is really surprising and sad to learn that the weather turned dreadful thereafter and many of the tourists got trapped in the avalanches and snowfall that followed and are being airlifted back to Manali after remaining there in icy conditions for 5-7 days.Thank God we were lucky by the grace of Kunjam Devi as our journey was without any hiccup whatsoever.

Nine out of the 13 had travelled to Leh,Khardungla Pass via Manali in June 2007 and had returned to Delhi via Kargil,Zozila Pass,Sonmarg and Srinagar experiencing some wonderful panorama of sightseeing.Today it is almost impossible to decide as to which of the two trips was better.

My heartfelt thanks to all those who helped us directly or indirectly in successful completion of the trip.I only pray to the Almighty now that all our friends trapped at various places are rescued and brought to safer places quickly.

Dear Mr. Prashant kumar , you were lucky …Our group were just behind you by a day . Before they could reach Manali next day , they were trapped at Batal . They already started going towards Chandratal by feet , but lucky enough they could come back and stayed at Dhaba in Batal .

Dear Mr. Prashant kumar , you were lucky …Our group were just behind you by a day . Before they could reach Manali next day , they were trapped at Batal . They already started going towards Chandratal by feet , but lucky enough they could come back and stayed at Dhaba in Batal .

Manali-Leh fully restored for traffic, 450 km long Manali-Leh road and Keylong-Kaza road has been declared officially restored for light and heavy vehicles as traffic is already on this road from June 21 after remaining close for about six months as all snow was cleared from the high passes official report confirmed., District Information Officer Lahaul Spiti Shair Singh informed that 450 km long Manali-Leh road become fully functional for light and heavy vehicles which is normaly plying after gap of six months as all snow was cleared from the Baralacha, Lapangla and Darchalacha Passes by the BRO officially declared opened from June 21 and Similarly Keylong-Kaza road became functional for the vehicular traffic as all snow has been cleared from the Kunzum Pass by the State Public Works Departments.
This district remains cut off from the rest of nation as 13050 ft high Rohtang Pass becomes unfit for traffic during winter seasons already opened for the traffic.

Manali-Leh fully restored for traffic, 450 km long Manali-Leh road and Keylong-Kaza road has been declared officially restored for light and heavy vehicles as traffic is already on this road from June 21 after remaining close for about six months as all snow was cleared from the high passes official report confirmed., District Information Officer Lahaul Spiti Shair Singh informed that 450 km long Manali-Leh road become fully functional for light and heavy vehicles which is normaly plying after gap of six months as all snow was cleared from the Baralacha, Lapangla and Darchalacha Passes by the BRO officially declared opened from June 21 and Similarly Keylong-Kaza road became functional for the vehicular traffic as all snow has been cleared from the Kunzum Pass by the State Public Works Departments.

This district remains cut off from the rest of nation as 13050 ft high Rohtang Pass becomes unfit for traffic during winter seasons already opened for the traffic.

Just came back to Manali today, Kunzum is open but road condition between Batal and Chotadhara is horrible. Gone to Barlacha la as well, but be careful about traffic jam as its only open as single lane and no restriction till date imposed on traffic, so you could easily loose couple of hours if you are not extremely lucky. Road between Jispa and Darcha and Sissu and Gondhla was not good, rest were pretty good. With recent snowfall you would enjoy a memorable panorama for sure. In both Kunzum Gramphoo and Gramphoo Barlacha la, expect some dreaded water crossing and crossing them in late evening might be risky too. One fresh western disturbance hits Himachal today, we experienced a severe storm last night in Gondhla and today Rotang was in horrible condition, faced 2 land slides, one between koksar and sissu (managed by taking a village route) other close to pass, that was cleared by BRO. Not sure about its impact on Baralacha and Kunzum. Wish all a safe and happy journey.

Just came back to Manali today, Kunzum is open but road condition between Batal and Chotadhara is horrible. Gone to Barlacha la as well, but be careful about traffic jam as its only open as single lane and no restriction till date imposed on traffic, so you could easily loose couple of hours if you are not extremely lucky. Road between Jispa and Darcha and Sissu and Gondhla was not good, rest were pretty good. With recent snowfall you would enjoy a memorable panorama for sure. In both Kunzum Gramphoo and Gramphoo Barlacha la, expect some dreaded water crossing and crossing them in late evening might be risky too. One fresh western disturbance hits Himachal today, we experienced a severe storm last night in Gondhla and today Rotang was in horrible condition, faced 2 land slides, one between koksar and sissu (managed by taking a village route) other close to pass, that was cleared by BRO. Not sure about its impact on Baralacha and Kunzum. Wish all a safe and happy journey.

Manali-Leh highway to shut Monday
The Manali-Leh highway will be closed June 28 i.e. on Monday, when UPA
chairperson Sonia Gandhi visits state as she is coming to lay the foundation stone of Rohtang Tunnel in the Solang Valley,' Deputy Commissioner B.M. Nanta told media persons .
He said no vehicle bound for Ladakh in Jammu and Kashmir and Keylong in Lahaul and Spiti district would be allowed beyond Kothi, about 30 km from Manali.
The National Highway 21 that passes through Rohtang Pass, 52 km from Manali, is a major attraction for tourists.
'Every Tuesday, the Rohtang Pass is closed for tourists for nine hours from 0900hrs. due to widening work. But this time we have decided to close it one day in advance. It will remain open Tuesday

Hi Sharad Shinde
Since it is too early to explore Manali-Leh as it has only opened on 21st. June after about 6 months so better you read my reply to Mr. Ravi above. Presently the road at Rohtang and baralacha requires high ground clearance vehicles as there are boulders, mud, snow melt water streams and snow at many patches so Innova being a car has not a good ground clearance at all as this time being early the road will test only the ground clearance and nothing else and after 20 days even Maruti 800 and Tata Nano can go easily :-
(1) Innova =176 MM
(2)Scorpio….=180 MM
(3) Safari……=205 MM
(4)Endevour=210 MM
Warnings and Advices:- Warm clothings, medicines(first aid box), complete tool kit with puncture and foot pump, Extra Petrol and Engine Oil, Rope, Don't park/stop vehicle below avalanche, big stones and rock falling areas, Be cautious while capturing snaps, Avoid liqueur during driving, Don't walk alone leaving group, Don't sleep in vehicle and keep eyes, ears open and be ready to jump from vehicle with shoes., Keep medicines, Sat phone, vehicle documents, identity card, gloves, goggles, drinking water, biscuits, glucose powder, Torch, extra woolen socks etc. in a small bag with you in vehicle and not in luggage, Don't go direct to Leh, Stay night at Sarchu or Pang, Cross the Rohtang 5AM to 6AM, Baralacha 1PM to 2 PM, Stay at Sarchu or Pang in tents, Nakeela and Lachungla Pass at any time during day and Tanglangla Pass 17582 Ft. 12AN to 1 PM., At the top of Tanglangla Pass 17582 Fts if someone gets problem of high altitude sickness you instead of wasting time for providing medicines or rest etc. to the sufferer go ahead to Leh faster steep down to low altitude to Rumtse the patient will be alright within half and hour ( this tip is very useful), Instead of using breaks use heavy gears on steep down snow roads. Avoid short cut roads which generally the trained local taxi drivers make. Drink about 6 to 7 liters of boiled water daily, Chew vit. C tab and consume glucose powder as per requirement. Eat hot liquid food. Don't use AC of vehicle, Don't waste time while crossing Passes, Every Passes, Lakes and rivers have their God and Goddess so worship respectfully, Don't through garbage in open place and keep the mountains clean. I think this much will serve the purpose, however if more you require mail me at topsinghbodh@gmail.com.

In addition to Top singhji's valuable suggestions … pl keep Cocoa Homeopathic medicine with each person . it has very good effect on High altitude Sickness and no side effects . We found it better than Dimox ( alopathy ) .. ( however others may find Dimox better ) . You can consult homeopathy doctor or medical shop for the dosage( Either in in Manali or at your city as you will start early morning tomorrow ! ) You can start from day one and can discontinue once you reach Leh if not required . Must take when to cross Khardungla pass going towards Nubra valley .

Since it is too early to explore Manali-Leh as it has only opened on 21st. June after about 6 months so better you read my reply to Mr. Ravi above. Presently the road at Rohtang and baralacha requires high ground clearance vehicles as there are boulders, mud, snow melt water streams and snow at many patches so Innova being a car has not a good ground clearance at all as this time being early the road will test only the ground clearance and nothing else and after 20 days even Maruti 800 and Tata Nano can go easily :-

(1) Innova =176 MM

(2)Scorpio….=180 MM

(3) Safari……=205 MM

(4)Endevour=210 MM

Warnings and Advices:- Warm clothings, medicines(first aid box), complete tool kit with puncture and foot pump, Extra Petrol and Engine Oil, Rope, Don't park/stop vehicle below avalanche, big stones and rock falling areas, Be cautious while capturing snaps, Avoid liqueur during driving, Don't walk alone leaving group, Don't sleep in vehicle and keep eyes, ears open and be ready to jump from vehicle with shoes., Keep medicines, Sat phone, vehicle documents, identity card, gloves, goggles, drinking water, biscuits, glucose powder, Torch, extra woolen socks etc. in a small bag with you in vehicle and not in luggage, Don't go direct to Leh, Stay night at Sarchu or Pang, Cross the Rohtang 5AM to 6AM, Baralacha 1PM to 2 PM, Stay at Sarchu or Pang in tents, Nakeela and Lachungla Pass at any time during day and Tanglangla Pass 17582 Ft. 12AN to 1 PM., At the top of Tanglangla Pass 17582 Fts if someone gets problem of high altitude sickness you instead of wasting time for providing medicines or rest etc. to the sufferer go ahead to Leh faster steep down to low altitude to Rumtse the patient will be alright within half and hour ( this tip is very useful), Instead of using breaks use heavy gears on steep down snow roads. Avoid short cut roads which generally the trained local taxi drivers make. Drink about 6 to 7 liters of boiled water daily, Chew vit. C tab and consume glucose powder as per requirement. Eat hot liquid food. Don't use AC of vehicle, Don't waste time while crossing Passes, Every Passes, Lakes and rivers have their God and Goddess so worship respectfully, Don't through garbage in open place and keep the mountains clean. I think this much will serve the purpose, however if more you require mail me at topsinghbodh@gmail.com.

In addition to Top singhji's valuable suggestions … pl keep Cocoa Homeopathic medicine with each person . it has very good effect on High altitude Sickness and no side effects . We found it better than Dimox ( alopathy ) .. ( however others may find Dimox better ) . You can consult homeopathy doctor or medical shop for the dosage( Either in in Manali or at your city as you will start early morning tomorrow ! ) You can start from day one and can discontinue once you reach Leh if not required . Must take when to cross Khardungla pass going towards Nubra valley .

Hi..
We are on a drive on 3 bikes, Thunderbird, a Kaizma, and a FZ from Delhi to Ladakh. We are currently at Nalagarh,HP. Just getting confused about Baralacha La whether it is ok for Bikes. With your comment we shall start our drive tomorrow, whether to progress to manali or to go towards Jammu, if it is really tough to go through Baralacha La?? Please reply

We are on a drive on 3 bikes, Thunderbird, a Kaizma, and a FZ from Delhi to Ladakh. We are currently at Nalagarh,HP. Just getting confused about Baralacha La whether it is ok for Bikes. With your comment we shall start our drive tomorrow, whether to progress to manali or to go towards Jammu, if it is really tough to go through Baralacha La?? Please reply

Let us see the weather and road status for doing Manali-Leh in September. If the road is open , you can do it but the September is the starting of winter season there so the Govt. of H.P. and J &K closes their passenger bus services in Manali-Leh route during this month. Moreover some Ladakhi who pitch tents in Bharatpur, Sarchu, Pang and Rumtse to provide tea, food and accomodation at nominal rates returns home by completing the tourist season. The snow often falls on the passes and the heavy snow fall can close the passes for about 6 months at any time and you can stuck there. Confirm the road status at Manali and then go… Wish you a safe and pleasant journey…. Juley.

Let us see the weather and road status for doing Manali-Leh in September. If the road is open , you can do it but the September is the starting of winter season there so the Govt. of H.P. and J &K closes their passenger bus services in Manali-Leh route during this month. Moreover some Ladakhi who pitch tents in Bharatpur, Sarchu, Pang and Rumtse to provide tea, food and accomodation at nominal rates returns home by completing the tourist season. The snow often falls on the passes and the heavy snow fall can close the passes for about 6 months at any time and you can stuck there. Confirm the road status at Manali and then go… Wish you a safe and pleasant journey…. Juley.

Normally Rohtang Pass get officially off for vehicular traffic in Month of November but last year BRO kept it open till Nov 15 on state government request. If you would be lucky road may remain open but more or less, it depends on weather conditions.